Atlantic Coast Conference 2013-2014 Annual Report

1. 
   Are we called or are we qualified? To preach the gospel, not eloquently, but with the power of God, thought it was at Hesston College, during a Spiritual Retreat in the mountains, but that was not God’s plan for my life. He took me 3,000 miles away to Holly Grove in Westover, Md. Opposite oceans, yet he put it together for me. A diverse congregation. Once unable to connect with the community, stuck in traditions and dying which led to surrender and brokenness. Now becoming a church in love with the Word of Christ and Life, Accepting and Loving with the Power of Christ.
   

Julia Dunst, Conference Secretary

1. 
   The theme of the day was God in Clay Jars: One People with Integrity, based on 2 Corinthians 6-7. We, as clay jars, are vessels containing the Light of God and because we are filled with His glory we will not be overcome by worldly forces. As leaders of the Church, we gather to walk a new path of discernment as disciples have done for centuries. We call on the Lord to guide us and make our church a faithful sign of His presence in the world.
   
2. 
   Minutes from Fall Assembly 2013 were received.
   
3. 
   The six-month Executive Committee summary was presented with certain points of interest highlighted.
   
4. 
   The Gifts Discernment Committee presented Executive Committee openings and reviewed the eligibility of several current members.
   
5. 
   The 2014-2015 budget was presented and accepted.
   
6. 
   The assembly heard a report on another meaningful season of Bible Quizzing.
   
7. 
   Congregations were invited to participate in both the new Shine youth Sunday school program and the Global Anabaptists Mennonite Encyclopedia Online.
   
8. 
   The assembly heard a report from those who attended the biannual Constituency Leaders Council meeting. Much of the sharing centered on the heartfelt, humble, honest conversations about differing understandings of human sexuality that came about based on deep interpersonal relationships. Issues of polity relating to decision-making at each level of the church were also addressed.
   
9. 
   The facilitation team led a time of reflection and sharing based on submitted scripture relating to human sexuality. The purpose was to build relationships through the sharing of scriptural perspectives with an emphasis on mutual respect and understanding. After a time of silence, the 2-4-8 groups facilitation tool was used to direct sharing, eventually leading to each table’s presentation of one common or chosen thought with the group. Common themes were:
   
   1. 
      Respect, humility, gentleness, patience and Christ-like love must guide all interactions
      
   2. 
      God cared for both the husband-wife unit as well as the eunich
      
   3. 
      We must not overlook God’s wrath in favor of his love and mercy
      
   4. 
      Understanding biblical events, cultures and languages must help interpret scripture
      
   5. 
      God accepts all people who are able to accept his words
      
   6. 
      We must know our own faults and seek restoration before looking outward.
      
   7. 
      A focus on the issues will not promote peace and upbuilding, while a focus on respect makes the issues less important
      
   8. 
      Walking with Jesus in grace and truth may require a change as we care for others
      
10. 
    Anita Zimmerman shared about the Reservoir Hill House of Peace and its many ministries.
    
11. 
    Howard Good shared about the upcoming Mennonite World Conference in Harrisburg.
    
12. 
    Brenda Martin shared about Frazer Mennonite’s journey of seeking membership with ACC.
    
13. 
    The facilitation team led a Samoan Circle to lead discussion and sharing based on the prompt: what does ACC mean to you, what do you want to communicate regarding the current issue, in light of dialogue on human sexuality? Themes not previously addressed:
    
    1. 
       ACC was founded on the vision of members having diverse stances on some issues, but being joined by common core beliefs.
       
    2. 
       It is necessary to follow biblical principles regarding homosexuality as a sin.
       
    3. 
       Congregations are losing the membership of some same-sex supporters because ACC is taking too long to accept them.
       
    4. 
       An open and affirming stance is biblically based.
       
    5. 
       Many members with differing opinions may be lost as a result of ACC embracing Frazer Mennonite.
       
14. 
    A vote will be held at the 2014 Fall Assembly on Frazier Mennonite’s full-membership request.